Sump pump system with remote control and monitoring

ABSTRACT

The present invention in several embodiments is a sump pump system with broad capabilities for remote and automatic operation. The sump pump system of the present invention is preferably connected to the internet and possesses means for communicating over the internet. The sump pump system could comprise redundant, auxiliary, and emergency devices to guard against failure or miss operation of the components of the system. Additionally, the system could comprise failsafe routines to combat the risk of flooding.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This patent application is related to and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/355,635 filed Jun. 17, 2010.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates, in general, to sump pumps and, more particularly, this invention relates to a sump pump system having improved remote control and monitoring.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

N/A

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX

N/A

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

As is generally well known, sump pump systems, particularly for industrial applications, are equipped with sophisticated operating and monitoring controls.

However, it has been found that there is a need for an improved sump pump system, particularly in the area of remote control and communication.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention in several embodiments is a sump pump system with selectable system settings. The selectable settings could comprise: size of pump (for proper failing of bad pump); type of battery (for proper charge routine); type of control switch; single or dual pumps or more, self testing frequency; AOK frequency; pump run time; and alarm settings.

A selectable pump operation could comprise: primary—no alarm will be created because of pump operation; backup—default mode (alarm will sound if pump operates); controlled—system's pump is controlled by dual float reed sensor; and mechanical—system's pump is controlled by any standard mechanical switch (float, pressure, etc.).

In controlled operation, a pump's run time may be adjusted between 5 and 90 seconds or zero may be chosen and the controller may turn off the pump when it detects that the pump has finished pumping water.

The system can immediately recognize a problem with any sensor and enter Emergency Mode. Since the controller has determined that a sensor cannot be relied on, it will turn the pump on to check for water to pump at scheduled intervals or some other arraignment.

In emergency mode, the system could extend the interval run time checking for water from 1 minute, to 2, to 4, up to 8 minutes. Once it detects and pumps water the interval will reset to 1 minute or another predetermined interval. This will save battery time during a period of no or slow rainfall or other low flow situations.

The controller may be set for dual system operation. The operation of dual pumps is selectable between “Related” or not. This feature allows pumps in separate sumps to operate independently if water levels rise and fall unequally.

The present invention in several embodiments comprises an expandable data network to allow for additional peripherals and functionality. Self-testing may be set to be configured at any desired interval. Alarms from testing or events will be sent to user via text, email, instant message or other electronic telecommunication means. Each alarm message can include the remote access and local access links so user may click and open a remote interface of their pump anytime, from anywhere. Interface allows alarm management, equipment testing, and editing of all settings.

Auxiliary alarms may be sent using the controller's Ethernet/internet, dialer, or home security system for any auxiliary sensor the user chooses to employ. i.e. water level sensor in ejector, temperature sensor for freezer (or in the home itself), motion, window breaks, door jam sensors, etc.

The present invention may comprise integrated service alerts/reminders. Owner could receive text/email alerts when equipment ages past pre-set values. Alerts may be sent to contractor so that 3rd party monitoring is possible for homeowner. Professional (paid) monitoring is also possible and remote access by Professional monitoring contractor provides unprecedented access and control to the flood prevention system.

A report on the status of important functions can be viewed on unit, and is also copied into alarm messages for easy user reference. A user may elect to receive A-OK notifications. These messages are useful when there are no events or alarms, yet the homeowner wishes to receive positive confirmation that all is well with the system. In several preferred embodiments the system can be remotely controlled and monitored through the internet.

Several preferred embodiments of the present invention are configured as a whole house control system or house utility and appliance control system. Multiple additional units can be added to the system to enable further envisioned functionality.

The pump system can monitor additional pump locations, such as the ejector pump by means of an auxiliary float sensor. In several embodiments the unit can speak alarms and menu navigation.

A primary electric sump pump utilizes a local control unit to monitor standard operation and is connected to the invention utilizing a data network. This allows for several advantages, such as primary pump self-testing, failure prediction, and remote control, monitoring, and management. Data on pump operation can be tracked and displayed for homeowner on a controller online interface.

A thermostat utilizes the invention to allow users simple remote access and control of the home's temperature. The new thermostat is wired into the home's HVAC system and is controlled by the user via the internet through the controller data network. User is now able to view and adjust temperature remotely and set alarms for high or low temperature thresholds.

The system in several embodiments allows for remote access and control of an electric generator. User benefits by means of testing to verify the system is ready for emergency start-up. This is particularly useful when an emergency is anticipated.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore one of the primary objects of the present invention to provide a sump pump system that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a sump pump system that can be remotely monitored and operated.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an intelligent sump pump control system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is one 3-d view of a sump pump system of the instant invention;

FIG. 2 is another 3-d view of a sump pump system of the instant invention;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a control system for controlling the sump pump of FIGS. 1-2;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a controller employed within the control system of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a LED module employed within the controller of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a LCD module employed within the controller of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an Ethernet module employed within the controller of FIG. 4; and

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a communication module employed within the controller of FIG. 4.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

It is to be understood that the definition of a sump pump applies to pump adapted to remove liquid, for example such as water, from a sump pit structure.

Reference is now made, to FIGS. 1-8, wherein there is shown a sump pump system, generally designated as 10, for removing water or other liquids from sump pit structure 1.

Furthermore, system 10 is illustrated and described as a back-up system to be used in combination with an existing sump pump 2, generally of an AC type. The pump 2 is connected to its own discharge manifold 4 having a check valve 6 installed therewithin.

Now in a particular reference to FIG. 1, the system 10 is illustrated and described as having a pump 12, preferably of a DC type, connected to the discharge manifold 14. A first check valve 16 is installed, in a conventional manner, within the discharge manifold 14. Mounted on a lower portion of the discharge manifold 14, within the sump pit 4, are low water level sensor 18 and a high water level sensor 20. The discharge manifolds 4 and 14 can be connected therebetween with a wye 8.

The system 10 of FIG. 1 also includes a primary battery 40 and a back-up battery 42.

The system 10 further includes a control system, generally designated as 50 and best illustrated in FIG. 3. Now in reference to FIG. 4-8, one of the essential elements of the control system 50 is a controller 52. The controller 52 includes a processor 54, a battery charging and power supply circuit 56, a communication interface 58, a plurality of inputs 60-68, and a plurality of outputs 70-74.

Connected to the processor 54 by way of the communication interface 58 are optional LED module 80, LCD module 110, Ethernet module 130 capable of two way communication by way of local area network (LAN) or internet and communication (“Talking”) module 140.

The system 10 also provides for optional remote control/display unit 150 operatively coupled to the controller 52, capability to link the controller 52 with a network computer 160 and a wireless control and monitoring capabilities with a wireless hand held device 170, that may be a conventional cell phone or the like devices.

Installation of the main components of the system 10 is achieved in a conventional manner. In further reference to FIG. 1, pump 12 is mounted in the sump pit 1. Discharge manifold 14 is also installed and is connected to the pump 12. Sensors 18 and 20 are preferably mounted on the discharge manifold 14 above the electric pump 12. Controller 52 and battery 40 are installed in a designated location. Controller 52 is coupled to the supply of electric power, such as a standard 110v wall receptacle 6. Pump 12 and sensors 18 and 20 are electrically coupled to the controller 52.

General operation of the system 10 is as follows.

Upon power-up, all LEDs will illuminate and the alarm will chirp 5 times to indicate proper operation. After 2 minutes, the system 10 will perform its first self-check, followed by a battery recharge.

When water engages (lifts) the lower sensor 18, the pump 12 turns on. The owner can choose the method by which the pump 12 turns off in the Switch Type Mode (described in further detail in Mode section). Once the lower sensor 18 disengages, either the pump 12 turns off after a set amount of time expires, adjustable by the user, or by recognition of the lack of water to pump 12 (default). If water reaches the upper sensor 20, a high water alarm is triggered. The upper sensor 20 also functions as a redundant sensor to control the pump 12 in the event that the lower sensor 18 fails.

Controller 52 will run the pump 12 directly using its internal power supply, completely by-passing the battery 40. In fact, the controller 52 is capable of running the pump 12 without any battery attached, though this is not recommended. When AC power is present, the controller 52 will maintain the battery(ies) at a full charge using a multi-stage charge routine, the charging style proven best for these batteries in this application.

At preselected intervals, for example twice per day, the controller 52 will enter an auto-test mode and verify that all equipments are operating properly. Included in the test routine is: test run the pump 12, load test the battery 40, test all LEDs and alarm for continuity and operation, verify charge operation, verify internal circuit integrity, check that the water level sensors are working properly, and finally, empty the sump of water. Once every 2 weeks, the charge mechanism of the controller 52 will not only perform a thorough recharge of the battery 40, but also initiate a “desulfation” technique. This attempts to break down naturally occurring sulfate on the internal battery 40 components, resulting in a longer lasting and stronger battery 40.

All configuration and history information is permanently saved and is not affected by a power outage and/or disconnection from the battery 40.

Depending on the status of the controller 52, the 16 character, 2 row blue backlit display 12 will be relating specific information to the user.

-   -   During normal stand-by: “System 10 Ready”     -   During power outage: “Battery 40 voltage, amps being drawn,         remaining battery 40 %, remaining running time” (calculated         using the # of available ampere hours, battery 40 age, and the         cycling behavior)     -   During charging: “Amperage output, % charge complete     -   During all user interaction: applicable menu navigation         information

All 4 LEDs 90-96 should be on solid in stand-by mode. If one or more LED is flashing, an error or alert is present. LEDs 90-96 also have a Double flash indicator state.

-   -   Red ‘Power’ LED 90: Solid: AC power is present, Flashing: AC         power is out. Double flash: Pump 12 Activation (will not flash         if controller 52 in Primary Pump 12 Mode)     -   Yellow ‘Charge’ LED 94: Solid: Controller 52 has successfully         charged battery 40. Flashing: Controller 52 is charging battery         40. Double flash: Fuse problem     -   Green ‘Stand-by’ LED, Solid: system 10 ready, Flashing: sensor         malfunction, Double Flash: Pump 12 on continuous     -   Blue ‘Battery 40’ LED 100, When AC power on: Solid: Battery 40         OK, Flashing: Check Battery 40. Double flash: during power         outage, battery 40 below 50%, seek alternative power

There are 6 buttons total. Every press of a button will coincide with a confirming beep.

The 2 buttons below the display 112 correspond to user interface information shown in the display 112. The 4 remaining buttons are “Speak” 84, “Silence” 82, “Notify” 89, and “Mode” 86.

“Speak” button 84 will give the user the ability to hear the current system 10 status, verbal alerts, and menu navigation. After the current status is stated, the user is given choices of hearing the results of the last 3 test routines, the last 3 alerts, and verbal confirmation of all settings.

“Silence” button 82 makes the controller 52 immediately stop beeping. However, the alarm will not clear out until a second press of the button 82 occurs. This allows the user to still inspect the display 112 for the reason for the alert or press the “Speak” button 84 to hear system 10 status even after a single press of the Silence button 84. The display 112 will query the user if the beeping and alerts should discontinue for 24 hrs. If yes is chosen, the controller 52 will not beep or initiate a notification for the same alert for 24 hours. After 24 hours, if no new alerts have been issued, the alert will clear from memory and the controller 52 will return to Stand-By. If the user wishes to clear the alarm from the controller 52 immediately, a second press of Silence button 82 will remove the alert from memory. Note that if the same alert occurs, the alarm and notification process will again initiate.

Example uses of a single press vs double press of Silence button 82: if the alert is for a pump 12 activation because the primary electric pump 12 has failed, and the sump activity will require the pump 12 to activate frequently, it is better to press the Silence button once to discontinue beeping and alerts for 24 hours rather than pressing the Silence button twice, which will clear the pump 12 activation alert completely from the controller 52 and allow the controller 52 to beep and notify if the pump 12 turns on again. On the other hand, the controller 52 might be alerting because you disconnected the battery 40. Once the battery 40 has been reconnected, you will want to double press Silence button 82 to not only stop the beeping, but also clear the alert out of memory and reset the display 112 to Stand-By mode.

“Notify” Button 89 is for all information related to the alert triggers. You can also dictate settings regarding dialer setup, home security system connection, and internet connection. User can customize what triggers will initiate the notification process.

-   -   User can toggle through a notification history. (since no time         clock, display 112 could label each trigger with an approximate         time stamp, i.e. “131 days ago” etc.)     -   The user is also given the choice of sending a “test” trigger to         immediately initiate the notification process.     -   ‘Mode’ button 86 allows you to toggle through many different         modes.

Pump 12 Mode: select between ‘Primary’ and ‘Backup’ modes. When in ‘Backup’ mode, system 10 will operate in stand-by as a backup pump 12 system 10, therefore alerting owner upon pump 12 activation. ‘Primary’ mode will operate the system 10 as though it is the primary pump 12 unit, therefore not alerting to pump 12 operation. Default=Backup

Silent Mode: immediately disengages current audible alarm. The user is given the choice of silencing the alarm for any period of time or permanently. If Silent mode is chosen, the digital display 112 will momentarily blink every 2 seconds. Also, permanent yes/no beep settings can be made for each alert. This will not affect the controller 52's decision to initiate a notification for the alert. Default=all alarms on

Reset Mode: clears all existing LED 90-100 alarm conditions and silence all existing audible alarms. As soon as an alarm condition presents itself again, the corresponding lights and audible will again occur.

Override Mode: runs the pump 12 non-stop when set to ‘on’. This is much like a panic switch to verify pump 12 operation. Presently preferred Default=off.

Run Time Mode: dictates the amount of time the pump 12 will run once Sensor 1 is deactivated. (vary from 5 to 60 seconds) Presently preferred Default=15 seconds.

A-OK Mode: set to on to receive a regular “all clear” phone call from the ePump 122 Series controller 52. User may set call interval to any frequency desired or to not frequency. User may adjust A-OK call time from current time in 15 minute increments. Presently preferred Default=weekly.

Volume Mode: will adjust the volume of the Speak function. The volume of the alert beeper may not be adjusted. Presently preferred Default=75%.

Test Mode: will initiate the normal test routine. The test time and interval is adjustable by the user. The choice is also given to reset the self-test time to the current time and then adjust the self-test time up or down in 15 minute increments from the current time.

ID Mode: will display 112 the unit's serial number and software version.

Battery 40 Mode: User can initiate a recharge process. User can tell controller 52 that batteries are new. User can set the number of battery 40 ampere hours (battery 40 capacity) the controller 52 is connected to. Range is from 80-440. Presently preferred Default=110.

Switch Type Mode: User can choose to use a mechanical pump switch rather than the standard dual float sensor. Choosing “Mechanical Switch” will turn off the controller 52's “Timed Off” function for turning off the pump 12, and turn off the controller 52's ability to test/monitor the sensor. Instead of the pump off being on a timer, the Mechanical Switch itself will turn the pump 12 on and off. Presently preferred Default=Sensor.

Pump 12 Type Mode: User can use this setting to select a different amp range of pump 12 operation. Detection of pump 12 operation outside of the set range will cause pump 12 failure notifications. This setting should NOT be changed unless the pump 12 being plugged into the pump 12 controller 52 is NOT the normally included pump 12 Black Label pump 12. It the pump controller 52 is being used with another pump 12, you will need to call 800-xxx-xxxx and describe the brand of pump 12 being utilized. We will then tell you the proper setting to use.

System 10 Data Mode: User can toggle through accumulated Controller 52 Hours, Pumping Hours (alert when 3,000 hours is reached), Number of Alerts.

All alerts will trigger the notification process in 5 minutes after detection. Exceptions are the immediate alert for high water, and 30 minute delay for power outage. The controller 52 will initiate alerts for the following triggers:

Pump 12

-   -   Activation     -   Jammed pump     -   Over/under amperage     -   Dead pump     -   Life timer exceeded     -   Reversed polarity

Battery 40

-   -   Over/under voltage     -   Failed load test     -   Disconnected     -   Limited remaining run time     -   Reversed polarity

Sensors 18-20—Disconnected sensor

Power Outage—30 minute notification delay

Continuous Run. Could simply be caused by large inflow of water and pump 12 running continuous. Also could indicate problem related to:

-   -   Clogged piping     -   Frozen piping     -   Air locked piping

High Water Sensor. Water level has risen to the level of the top sensor. Immediate notification.

Internal Failure. Controller 52 has detected a problem with the power supply, circuit board, or other internal component.

Failure to notify, unit will alarm and display 112 alert locally if any attempt to notify (including test, self test, or A-OK call does not complete properly)

Not only is the sump pump system 10 the highest pump 12ing capacity system 10, and the most sophisticated technology system 10, it is also the world's first and only “Connected” system 10.

The user has 3 choices to achieve notification:

1. The simplest method for notification is to utilize your existing home security system 180 (such as ADT, Protection One, Keyth, etc.). This is achieved by purchasing the optional Security System Transmitter (SST) 182 and simply plugging it into the corresponding port on the bottom of the controller 52. This SST 182 can be purchased from your point of purchase OR from your home security system provider. The SST 182 will need to be “synched” to your control panel and your security system 180 provider may charge you an additional monthly fee to add this as a monitored location. The SST 182 will initiate an alert to the security system 180 provider for any of the alerts you have defined as part of the notification process.

2. A second method of notification is to utilize the optional wireless dialer 172, called the DataDispatch. This is a programmable dialing unit that will call up to 5 programmable phone numbers and play your custom message. The DataDispatch, which can be located at an available phone jack anywhere in your house, is wirelessly triggered by a transmitter plugged into the bottom of the pump 12 controller 52.

3. The most thorough method of notification, and the method that takes advantage of all the pump controller 52's remote access/control capabilities is to connect the unit to the internet. This method does not require any additional accessories. You simply plug one end of an ethernet cable into the RS485 port on the bottom of the controller 52 and the other end into an available port on your network. Configuration of the unit into your network is beyond the scope of this manual. The variances between network settings, routers, and security vary too greatly for this manual to make any useful attempts at covering the subject. Basically, you or a knowledgeable networking person need to have the home's router recognize the controller 52 and assign it an address on the network. Then use an internet browser to navigate to the pump 12 controller 52 user interface (similar in look to web pages) and configure the notification settings (email, etc.). If you wish to configure the settings so that you can access the pump 12 controller 52 from outside of your LAN (i.e. from anywhere else in the world besides the location of your router), your router must be set to assign the pump 12 controller 52 a static IP address. These configuration requirements are typically a simple 2 hours of setup for somebody with moderate networking skills. However, this can vary from 10 minutes to unknown depending on the existing hardware and settings.

Once the method of notification is selected and set up, we recommend testing the notification process by simulating an error condition such as an unplugged sensor.

The controller 52 is equipped with an internal speaker 148 that will sound for several reasons.

A 3 second delay beep indicates that the pump 12 is currently running. The alarm switch can be set to ‘off’ if desired

A 6 second delay beep indicates a battery 40 problem. Check controller 52 for LED and/or LCD indication of problem.

A 3 second delay double beep indicates some other problem (pump 12 jam, connectivity, polarity, etc.). Check controller 52 for LED and/or LCD indication of problem.

A 6 second delay double beep indicates loss of power.

In addition to the audible alarm 102, the controller 52 contains an internal speaker that will verbalize the current error condition. See the section above regarding the “Speak” button.

Bottom Panel of the controller 52.

The various receptacles and cords on the bottom panel of controller 52:

AC power cord. If possible, plug the controller 52 into a dedicated circuit. Plug unit into standard electrical power receptacle that, if shared, is shared by a combined amp draw less than the rated circuit allows. Plug this cord in BEFORE attaching the DC cord to batteries.

“Pump 12” receptacle, to plug in the plug from the pump 12.

“Sensor” receptacle, to plug in the plug from the sensor.

“Remote Display 112” receptacle, to plug in optional Remote Display 112 Unit.

“Notify” receptacle is for an RJ11 plug that can plug into the included wired dialer, the transmitter for the upgraded wireless dialer, or an existing home security system 10.

DC power cord. For connection to the batteries. Connect to battery 40 AFTER plugging controller 52 in to AC power.

Sold as an option, the user may purchase the Remote Control/Display device 150. This device 150 may be placed at any location in the home for easy access to all user controls. It connects to the controller 52 via either wired connection, for example by way of a RS 485 protocol, or wirelessly. The device 150 gives the user a convenient “at a glance” access to the sump pump system 10. All the buttons, LEDs, and display 112 are repeated on the Remote Display Device 150 for 100% control and input of the system 10.

The optional pump series wireless notification unit 172 can be placed next to any desired phone jack (up to 50′ away) and is signaled by the pump series controller 52 wirelessly. Simply plug in the included wireless transmitter 172 to the “Notify” jack on the bottom of the controller 52. The device will dial up to 5 different phone numbers to notify you of an alert condition. This upgraded device 172 can also accept triggers from up to 60 additional wireless accessories such as sensors for windows and doors, temperature, motion, water level in ejector pit, etc.

The afore-described system 10 is one-of-a-kind, technology-infused sump pump system 10 that will operate as an AC or DC system with maintenance free batteries 40, 42. It is also design to pump the most water of any currently available backup pump system 10, achieve the longest running times in the industry, self test all components and confirm the absence of faults or errors twice per day, communicate the presence of any faults through its digital display 112, and loud internal beeper and phone, email, and text notification through one or more of the following: existing home security system 10, phone messages to up to a plurality of phone numbers, or internet connection.

In addition to the notification capabilities, the system 10 also has the unique “Speak” button 84 which, when pressed, will state, in clear English, the unit's status and menu flow.

User interaction is accomplished through a high tech, intuitive display 112 panel with a 2 line, 16 character Blue backlit digital display 112, 4 LEDs 114-120, and 6 blister buttons 82-88 and 122-124.

The controller 52 permanently stores most recent alarm and system 10 information in its memory.

Occasionally, a second pump is desired for increased pumping capacity augmenting the pump 12.

Accordingly, in reference to FIG. 2, the system 10′ is illustrated and described as having a first pump 12 connected to the discharge manifold 14. A first check valve 16 is installed, in a conventional manner, within the discharge manifold 14. Mounted on a lower portion of the discharge manifold 14, within the sump pit 1, are low water level sensor 18 and a high water level sensor 20. The system 10 also includes a second pump 22 connected to the discharge manifold 24 having its own check valve 26. The second pump 22 is also of a DC type. The manifolds 14 and 24 are preferably connected therebetween into a common discharge manifold 28 connected with the manifold 4 by way of a wye 8.

The system 10′ of FIG. 2 will allow for a second pump 22 to be used along with a “slave” controller 53. The slave controller 53 simply plugs into the first controller 52 via a data cable and control of both pumps 12 and 22 is now achieved.

The instant invention further contemplates that the pump 2 can be connected either to controller 12 or to another slave controller 53. 

1. A sump pump system comprising: at least one sump pump, at least one controller means for at least controlling said at least one sump pump, at least one telecommunication means operably connected to said controller means, at least one controller display operably connected to said controller means, at least one sensor in communication with said controller means, wherein said at least one sensor indicates a predetermined state to said at least one controller means which in turns modifies operation of said at least one sump pump based at least in part on said predetermined state.
 2. The sump pump system of claim 1, wherein said at least one telecommunication means comprises a connection to the Internet.
 3. The sump pump system of claim 1, wherein said at least one controller means receives commands for modifying control of said at least one sump pump by means of an Internet connection.
 4. The sump pump system of claim 1, wherein said at least one controller means receives commands for modifying control of said at least one sump pump by means of a wireless telecommunication transmission.
 5. The sump pump system of claim 1, further comprising a battery powered power supply.
 6. The sump pump system of claim 1, further comprising a connection to a security system.
 7. The sump pump system of claim 1, further comprising a connection to a thermostat.
 8. The sump pump system of claim 1, further comprising a thermostat.
 9. The sump pump system of claim 1, wherein said at least one sensor indicates that said at least one sensor has failed.
 10. The sump pump system of claim 1, wherein said at least one sensor indicates that said at least one sensor has failed which in turn causes said at least one controller means to start said at least one sump pump in predetermined intervals of time. 